Pilgrimage sanctuary · Northwest
Monastery of Agia Markella
Ιερά Μονή Αγίας Μαρκέλλας
One of Chios's most important living religious destinations, set on the remote northwestern coast and focus of a major annual pilgrimage.
Why go
One of Chios's most important living religious destinations, set on the remote northwestern coast and focus of a major annual pilgrimage.
At a glance
- Time needed
- 45–90 minutes outside pilgrimage day.
- Best time
- Morning or late afternoon.
- Accessibility
- Access around the sanctuary is generally straightforward by road, but individual paths and surfaces may be uneven.
The experience
Set beside the sea on the remote northwestern coast, the sanctuary of Agia Markella is one of Chios's most deeply revered religious places. The setting is peaceful for most of the year, but around 22 July it becomes the focus of a major pilgrimage that brings worshippers from across the island and beyond. Even outside the feast, the combination of sanctuary, coastline and the road from Volissos makes this a memorable northern excursion.
Practical information
Map and directions
Sources & accuracy
Verified · 12 Aug 2026
Photograph: supplied by the publisher
Sources Metropolis of Chios; published monastery histories; field notes · Photography and rights